ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) is an insidious, fatal disease for which there is no known cure – yet. With an average life expectancy of 2 – 5 years, ALS patients endure unimaginable challenges. As the disease progresses, they gradually lose all muscle control, but maintain full mental capacity and awareness. For many, ALS not only debilitates the body, but can wreak havoc on the psychological and spiritual strength of both the person living with it, and the people who care for them. But Liz and her family steadfastly refuse to let ALS break them. 

When Liz’s husband Ed was diagnosed with the disease on March 17, 2000, the Shea family took a hard stand to “never give up”. To face ALS with optimism. To live intentionally and find the joy in each day. And after over two decades of living with the disease, Ed is a living miracle. In recognition of Ed’s ALS diagnosis date, Liz supports Ed’s ALS journey by walking 3.17 miles daily. Team Shea also participates annually in ALSA Charlotte’s Walk to Defeat ALS.